If you are injured in a hit and run, the steps you take immediately after the crash can directly affect your recovery and your ability to file a claim. Call 911, document the scene, seek medical care, and report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Acting quickly protects both your health and your legal options.
Metairie is a densely populated community in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, with heavy commuter traffic connecting it to New Orleans. Road incidents, including hit and run crashes, are a known concern in high-traffic suburban areas like this one.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a hit and run accident in Metairie, understanding what steps to take can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds.
Call 911 and Stay at the Scene
Your first priority after a hit and run is to call emergency services. Do not chase the other driver or leave the scene yourself.
Calling 911 creates an official record of the incident from the start. Police will document the crash, collect witness information, and begin looking for the fleeing driver. That report becomes one of the most important pieces of evidence in your case.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your injuries seem minor, get medical care right away. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, do not show symptoms immediately.
A medical evaluation creates a direct link between the crash and your injuries. That connection is critical when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Delaying care can give insurers a reason to question the severity of your injuries.
Document Everything at the Scene
Gather as much information as possible before leaving the scene.
- Take photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, and the surrounding area.
- Note the time, location, and direction the other vehicle was traveling.
- Write down the make, model, color, and any part of the license plate you remember.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses nearby.
Even partial details about the fleeing vehicle can help law enforcement track down the driver.
Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the hit and run as soon as you can. Most policies require prompt reporting, and delays can complicate your claim.
If the at-fault driver is never identified, your uninsured motorist coverage may apply. This coverage is designed to compensate victims when the responsible party cannot be found or does not have insurance. Reviewing your policy carefully will clarify what you are entitled to claim.
File a Police Report
A formal police report is essential for any hit and run claim. In Louisiana, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury is a criminal offense under La. R.S. 14:100, which carries serious penalties for the fleeing driver.
Filing a report also keeps the investigation active. If the driver is later identified, that report supports any civil or criminal action you may choose to pursue.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
An attorney who handles hit and run cases can help you understand your full range of options. They can deal with insurance companies on your behalf and identify all available sources of compensation.
If the driver is never found, an attorney can help you build a strong uninsured motorist claim. If the driver is identified, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Either way, professional legal guidance improves your chances of a fair outcome.
Key Takeaways
- Call 911 immediately after a hit and run and stay at the scene.
- Get medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor at first.
- Document the scene with photos, witness contacts, and vehicle details.
- Report the crash to your insurer promptly to protect your claim.
- In Louisiana, fleeing the scene of an injury crash is a criminal offense under La. R.S. 14:100
- Uninsured motorist coverage may apply if the at-fault driver is never found.
- An attorney can help you pursue compensation through insurance or a personal injury lawsuit.
